Parks & Trails

Parks & Trails

Limerick Township is defined by its wild beauty—towering forests, clear lakes, rugged Canadian Shield, and quiet backcountry spaces that invite exploration. Our parks and trails offer residents and visitors a chance to experience this landscape up close, whether you’re hiking beneath old‑growth pines, paddling calm waters, or discovering the history woven into our natural surroundings.

From the peaceful pathways of McGeachie Conservation Area to the expansive Hastings Heritage Trail that stretches across the County, Limerick is home to some of the region’s most memorable outdoor experiences. These spaces support year‑round recreation: hiking, cycling, snowmobiling, ATVing, birdwatching, photography, and simple moments of solitude.

Our parks and trails are more than places to visit—they’re part of the Township’s identity. They reflect our commitment to conservation, responsible recreation, and ensuring that the natural landscapes we cherish remain protected and accessible for generations to come.

Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend adventure, or a quiet walk in the woods, Limerick Township’s parks and trails offer something for every explorer.

McGeachie Conservation Area is a cherished natural retreat in the heart of Limerick Township, offering 500 acres of forest, wetlands, and shoreline along Steenburg Lake. Donated by Jack and Ethel McGeachie in 1994, the property is now protected and cared for by the Crowe Valley Conservation Authority, ensuring it is preserved for generations to come.

Visitors can enjoy a network of walking trails that wind through mixed woodlands, beaver ponds, creeks, and rich wetland habitat. The landscape is peaceful and varied, making it an inviting destination for anyone seeking quiet time in nature

The conservation area is also home to the original McGeachie homestead, built nearly 150 years ago. Today, this historic cottage is available for public rental and offers a unique, comfortable getaway surrounded by natural beauty.

Trail users are encouraged to download the trail map before arriving. Access is simple: from Highway 62, turn onto North Steenburg Lake Road and follow it past the public beach to reach the conservation area and trail entrance.

Crowe-Valley-Conservation-Trailhead-MCA-Trail-Map

The Hastings Heritage Trail stretches across the full length of Hastings County, connecting the Trent Canal System in the south to the boundary of Algonquin Park in the north. Running from Glen Ross to Lake St. Peter, this remarkable corridor follows the historic rail line that once linked rural communities across the region.

Today, the trail welcomes thousands of visitors each year—hikers, cyclists, horseback riders, snowmobilers, and ATV enthusiasts—each discovering their own way to experience its changing landscapes. Traveling the trail is a journey through a natural wonderland: cascading waterfalls, quiet marshes, and diverse plant and wildlife habitats unfold mile after mile.

What makes the Hastings Heritage Trail truly special is the way nature and history intertwine. Along the route, you’ll encounter remnants of the late 1800s railway era—old station sites, weathered trestle bridges, and traces of communities that once thrived along the line. These historic features offer a vivid glimpse into the past while the surrounding wilderness showcases the enduring beauty of Hastings County.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, solitude, or a connection to local heritage, the Hastings Heritage Trail offers an unforgettable way to explore the region.